shoping on a budget

I know it's now easy living on a budget even now when it's just myself and my husband but somehow I do it buy cutting out coupons it on easy and I go to stores where they sell meats buy one get one free or dubble copons that's the only way I can stay on my budget. Well it is 8:15 pm here in Calif and I have not took my pills or eaten dinner yet so I will be back.

5 replies

I'm so glad i found this website. I am learning sooo much. I just wanted to add that I have been using coupons for about 6 months now and have saved sooo much money. It takes time but It is definetly worth it! It definetly helps to keep me on track to eat healthy. Last week i went to the grocery store my total before my coupons and shoppers club card was $144.87 after coupons i only paid $38.48! It takes a lot of time to get the coupons but like i said its worth it!

There are weeks where it's difficult to budge the budget but for the most part, my wife and I are able to keep on track without going into excess debt as many families do. Our ratios of income to expenses are in range with about 30% of income going to housing; 15% going for transportation; 10%+ going to savings; etc. We save off the top and then put money towards fixed bills (mortgage, utilities, etc) and we pretty much stick to our food budget. We give ourselves allowances for splurges but we don't use credit cards unless necessary so it won't be long before we are debt free. It pays to shop around and plan ahead for things whether they are wants or needs and having a little savings is comforting in the event of emergency. My tips for saving money are to shop around for pricing and sales, use coupons on things we really need and use, use generics when possible, plan errands wisely so as not to waste gas, plan meals ahead, freeze leftovers, and think before we spend. The little things often end up costing more than the bigger things because they add up so fast so we keep checks on value from the purchases we make and find that communication is the key to avoid fighting over money. It works!

Diabetes is so expensive. Yes we gave insurance but I have to pay all up tp $3,000.00 then a portion up to $4,000.00 So after I finally hit my deductible I spend the rest of the year paying off the deductible. My eyes are getting really bad and it's been 7 years since I replaced my glasses and back then I paid over $500.00. I figure I need at least $700.00 now and haven't a clue where I'll get the money from.

Cookie: I can totally understand the fears and frustrations and costs when it comes medical and/or vision insurance and expense. I wish I had answers for you but would encourage you to check out your local United Way Agencies for any kind of referrals that they can offer you. My Mom had a serious (non-diabetic) eye disorder/disease which developed later in her life. Do you have a society for the visually impaired in your community that may be able to give you some kind of support (financial or emotional)? It is good that you have the insurance because so many people do not. There are times when budgeting will help with achieving the goals that you have but sometimes the take-home pay barely takes you home. I hope that one of the members here may have some experience on how to help you get the assistance that you need. While I don't have anything concrete to offer, I do have a virtual hug for all that you have, are and will be going through. We are a family … and we care!

Hi Cookie Roma I am so sorry to hear what you have to go though and I tought that I had it bad.Your church won't help you or is there some kind of cheraties that help poeple where you live? Have you tried the county hospitals maybe you won't have to pay so much.Good Luck Penny